Fordham Routs Albany in Non-Conference Men’s Basketball

LAVAL, Quebec (Interstat) — In a commanding display of offensive firepower, the Fordham Rams secured a decisive 88-68 victory over the Albany Great Danes in a non-conference men’s basketball game Saturday night at Place Bell.

A crowd of 1,867 watched as the Rams used a balanced and efficient attack to pull away from the Great Danes, improving their season record to 6-2. Albany, struggling to find consistent momentum, fell to 2-6 with the loss.

The game was defined by Fordham’s dynamic backcourt duo. Christian Henry, a junior guard from Chicago, delivered a stellar performance, leading all scorers with 29 points. He was a constant threat, adding 7 assists and showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor. His backcourt partner, DeJour Reaves of Syracuse, New York, provided crucial support with 17 points and 5 assists, orchestrating the Rams’ offense with precision.

Fordham’s frontcourt also made significant contributions. Rikus Schulte, a 6-foot-9 forward from Munster, Germany, dominated the interior, scoring 14 points and controlling the boards, while Akira Jacobs of Yokohama, Japan, chipped in 16 points, including several key baskets from beyond the arc.

The Rams set the tone early, building a 42-33 lead by halftime. They continued their assertive play in the second half, outscoring Albany 46-35 to seal the victory. Fordham’s offensive execution was superior, as they capitalized on opportunities in the paint, outscoring Albany 36-26 near the basket, and were more effective in transition, registering 12 fastbreak points to Albany’s 8.

Albany was led by the efforts of Isaac Abidde and Jaden Kempson, who each scored 15 points. Abidde, a forward from Albany, Georgia, was efficient in his 15 minutes of play, while Kempson, a guard from the Bronx, added 3 assists. Nasir Muhammad of Brooklyn also contributed 14 points and 4 assists for the Great Danes, but the team’s efforts were not enough to overcome Fordham’s sustained offensive pressure.

The game’s momentum swung decisively in Fordham’s favor early in the second half. After Albany’s Jaden Kempson opened the period with a jump shot to cut the deficit to seven, the Rams erupted with a 10-0 run. The surge was capped by a DeJour Reaves driving layup, forcing an Albany timeout and extending Fordham’s lead to 52-35. The Rams never looked back, maintaining a double-digit advantage for the remainder of the contest.

Fordham’s defense also played a pivotal role, generating turnovers and converting them into points. While Albany managed 15 points off turnovers, Fordham’s ability to disrupt Albany’s rhythm and create transition opportunities was a key factor in building and maintaining their lead.

The victory continues a positive early-season trend for Fordham, which has now won six of its last seven games after a season-opening loss. For Albany, the search for consistency continues as they navigate a challenging schedule. The game’s total score of 156 points surpassed the pregame over/under line of 140. Fordham entered the contest as a 5.5-point favorite according to sportsbooks, a line they covered comfortably with the 20-point victory.

Both teams return to action Sunday at Place Bell, with Albany facing SUNY Oneonta and Fordham taking on Colgate.